The 14 Essential Minerals
Plants require a mix of both macronutrients and micronutrients to thrive. Here’s a breakdown:
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- Macronutrients:
- Primary: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K). Often referred to as N-P-K, these are the three main nutrients you’ll see listed on most fertilizer labels.
- Secondary: Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), and Sulfur (S).
- Micronutrients:
- Iron (Fe), Boron (B), Chlorine (Cl), Manganese (Mn), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Molybdenum (Mo), and Nickel (Ni).
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Understanding Fertilizer Labels:
When choosing a hydroponic fertilizer, it’s crucial to understand the label. A label might read “10-20-10”, which represents the N-P-K ratio. This means:
- 10% Nitrogen
- 20% Phosphorus
- 10% Potassium
The remaining 60% consists of other nutrients and filler material.
Monitoring and Adjusting:
It’s essential to monitor the nutrient solution’s pH and electrical conductivity (EC) regularly. The pH level affects nutrient absorption, while EC measures the solution’s salt concentration, indicating nutrient strength.
- pH Levels: Most hydroponic plants prefer a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Outside this range, certain nutrients become less available, leading to deficiencies.
- EC Levels: If the EC is too high, it indicates an excess of nutrients, which can lead to nutrient burn. If it’s too low, your plants may not be getting enough nutrients.
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Water Quality:
The quality of the water used in hydroponics plays a significant role. Hard water or water with high mineral content can interfere with nutrient absorption. Using reverse osmosis water or rainwater can help ensure a purer starting point for your nutrient solution.